Progress in sewage plant renovations

Following a two million euro fine issued against Luxembourg by the European Court of Justice last year, refurbishment work to make sewage treatment plants EU-conform is making progress.

01.05.2014

(CS/rr) Following a two million euro fine issued against Luxembourg by the European Court of Justice last year, refurbishment work to make sewage treatment plants EU-conform is making progress.

Environment Minister Carole Dieschbourg on Wednesday said that water had been made a priority at the ministry, saying that improved synergies should bring quicker results to update treatment facilities.

Construction works at the treatment plant in Bleesbréck, near Diekirch, should begin this June and should be completed by 2018.

Refurbishment of the sewage plant in Beringen, near Mersch, meanwhile should be finished as early as next year.

The ECJ last year slapped Luxembourg with a fine after it had failed to comply with regulation on the denitrification of water at several plants. Although progress was made between 2006, when the report was first issued, and 2013, the ECJ found these efforts wanting and issued a fine.

In addition to the two million euro payment, Luxembourg has to pay 2,800 euros per day during which its sewage treatment plants do not comply with EU regulations, to be paid in half-year instalments.

The sum will be reduced as progress is made.

A report by the Luxembourg Court of Auditors, submitted to the Chamber of Deputies this week, meanwhile criticised delays in the administrative process and urged for better communication between the partners involved for a quicker resolution of the problem.